Obituary of Mike Chernipeski

Mike Chernipeski was born on May 27, 1929 on the family farm near Theodore, Saskatchewan to Steve and Agoffia (Maleschuk) Chernipeski. He was the sixth of twelve children. Mike graduated high school and went to work as a farm hand and then a cook's helper. He became an SDA Christian in 1956, and it changed his life for the better. He cared deeply for family and when he bought his first truck, was proud to work road construction alongside his brothers.

His decision to become a farmer came from his wish to ‘feed people.' He first raised cattle and then changed to growing grain. Mike bought farm land by Theodore and then the farm by York Lake where he lived for over 60 years. He married Bernice Tataryn in 1963 and they raised four children: Brian, Carla, Janine, and Debra. Love for the Lord, his family, and nature brought quality to his life. His zest for telling stories was surpassed only by his own laughter.

Mike enjoyed gardening with Bernice, feeding deer, bird watching, and taking care of the many fruit trees he planted. He loved watching his grandchildren grow up and hearing about their activities. Mike enjoyed visiting and playing games with family and friends. In 2004, he took family on his dream trip to Churchill, Manitoba. In 2021, his health declined and he was well taken care of at personal care homes in Theodore and Yorkton. Mike passed away in Yorkton with family by his side on July 22, 2023.

He will be missed dearly by his loving wife, Bernice; children Brian (fiancée Maryana) Chernipeski, Carla (John) DeWarle, Janine Chernipeski, Debra (Desmond) Grabo; and grandchildren John Austin DeWarle; Denai, Devaney, and Daila Grabo.

Mike is survived by his brothers Alex (Adelle), Edward, Steve (Marina), and sister Emillie. In-laws Lillian, Marjorie, Eileen, Albert (Hilde), Russell (Carol), Ben, Alfred (Vickie), and Florence, as well as forty-two nieces and nephews, and many extended relatives and friends.